Tag: cardboard boxes

When you think of moving to a new home, what words come to mind? If you’re like most who have gone through the process of a home move, you probably think of words like chaos, disorganization and stress. It’s not that moving to a new home is all bad. In fact, it can actually be a very exciting time in one’s life. The problem is that there are a lot of details involved in order to orchestrate and conduct a move. From finding a new place to live, to packing, cleaning and buying supplies, there is a great deal to organize if you want to get from Point A to Point B successfully.

Luckily, your moving preparations don’t have to be disorganized, chaotic or stressful. How, you ask? One way is to devise a smart and foolproof labeling system for packing. Below you will find our top tips for labeling moving boxes for an upcoming move.

Create a Color-Code System

We previously mentioned a color-code system. Now we will discuss in full what this is and how it works. So here goes! The best way to label moving boxes is to create and use a color-coding system. Here’s an example:

Say you choose the color blue to mean bedroom. You will use either a blue marker or blue tape to label all boxes that are packed with items from your bedroom. Come moving day, you will know to take all boxes labeled with blue to the bedroom until they can later be unpacked.

How will others, like friends and movers, understand your color-coding system? A good way to keep them informed is to place colored pieces of paper on the doors of your new home that match the color-code on your boxes. For example, for bedroom boxes labeled with blue, place a blue piece of paper over that specific bedroom door.

Create a Number Labeling System

Are you into numbers more than colors? No problem! Another great labeling technique you can use is a number labeling system. The purpose of using numbers to mark your moving boxes is to designate a certain number to each container. Then, you create a master inventory checklist that includes the contents located in each numbered box.

For example: If Box #1 includes a coffee maker, toaster and blender, each of these items will be listed under Box #1 on your inventory checklist. Then, on the box, you will write “#1”.

The key to using a number labeling system is to ensure you don’t lose the master inventory checklist. So print several copies and also email it to yourself and even to a friend for extra backup.

Gather Labeling Supplies

One of the keys to successfully pack for a move is to have the proper supplies to get the job done. While the most obvious supplies you’ll need are things like cardboard moving boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, and tape, you will also need labeling supplies:

Quality Markers. One of the most important labeling supplies to have are markers (have several on hand!). Unlike ordinary pens, markers are the best choice. When shopping for markers, keep these things in mind:

Color.Using markers of different colors will allow you to color-code each box based on the room it belongs in. This will make moving day, and unpacking, much more organized.

Quality.With moving costs exploding around you, it can be tempting to cut costs on things like markers. But this is a definite mistake, as they are more likely to run out of ink faster and not show up as well.

Permanent and Waterproof.Moving day comes with a big list of what-ifs. What if it rains? What if something leaks? Problems like these can cause labels to smudge and smear. This is why using permanent and waterproof markers when labeling your moving boxes is a must.

Labels. If you prefer to have sticky labels that you write on, you can find downloadable and ready-to-use printable moving box labels on the Internet. You can also purchase labels from a local moving company. These labels will include the names of different rooms on them so you won’t even have to write on them.

Colored Tape. While packing your belongings, you will have lots of clear packing tape on hand. But this won’t work for labeling! To label your boxes, you will need to purchase colored tape. This way, you can enhance your labeling system and make box notification easier.

Label Boxes Correctly

There are, of course, no serious rules to follow when it comes to labeling your moving boxes. You are a unique individual, after all, and can label them whichever way you choose. But we do have a few proven techniques to share with you to help make labeling an easy and organized success.

Choose a labeling method that works best for you. Then, label the top and two sides of each moving box. Be sure your writing is legible. It should also be visible on at least one side, even when boxes are stacked one on top of the other.

Attach moving labels to your boxes then place clear packing tape over them. This way labels won’t fall of or get torn or wet during transportation.

Label boxes that require extra care with words like “Fragile”, “Breakable” or “Handle with Care”.

When you think about all of the rooms in your home that you will need to pack up for an upcoming move, the bathroom probably falls toward the bottom of the list. As one of the smallest areas in your home, it makes sense. There are not as many items to pack, and everything is typically small. But before you wait until the very last minute to pack your bathroom(s), be aware that it does take some organization and time to get the job done. Like most who are in the process of packing for a move, you probably want to get it done as fast and efficiently as possible. Here are some tips to make packing your bathroom easy, organized and quick.

Essentials

During the first few days after your move, your home will be a messy maze of boxes – some unpacked, some not. This will make it hard to find specific items that you need access to on a daily basis. To eliminate irritation and stress the first week post-move, it’s a good idea to pack a box specifically for essentials. Items you will want to include in this box are cosmetics, medications and bathroom items such as your toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo and toilet paper.

Cosmetics and Medicines

Cosmetics and medicines are two things that should be sorted before packing them. Throw away anything that has expired or shows a change in color, consistency or smell. Since you don’t want to consume or use these items on your body when they are in that condition, there is no reason to waste time packing them to take with you.

A good thing to remember about cosmetics is that many cosmetics melt (e.g., lipstick and eyeliner pencils). To avoid a pile of melted and unusable makeup, don’t pack them inside an over-heated moving truck. Instead, it is best to keep these items with you during the move.

Liquids

From shampoos and conditioners to soaps and lotions, your bathroom houses a lot of liquids. Before simply throwing these items into a box, sort through them. More than likely, you will find many bottles of lotions or fancy gift soaps that you never have and never will use. Go ahead and throw these liquid items away. Doing so will leave you with time to focus on more important things.

You also need to pack liquid items the right way. Otherwise, you risk a messy disaster! So how do you pack these items correctly?

Ensure all tops are properly closed.

Wrap packing tape around all caps and lids.

Place all liquid items inside sealable plastic bags. This will ensure that if a leak occurs, it won’t cause damage to other items. This is an especially good idea if you are packing expensive items.

When all liquid items are fully secured, pack them in cardboard boxes and securely tape it closed.

Fragile Items

For any fragile items in your bathroom (e.g., mirrors), take extra safety precautions when packing. Wrap each item individually in bubble wrap and use tape to secure it. Then place the items inside a sturdy cardboard box and fill any empty space with packing peanuts or crumpled packing paper. The goal here is to eliminate movement inside the box so nothing becomes damaged during transport.

Soft, Unbreakable Items

The easiest items in your bathroom to pack will be those that are soft and unbreakable – towels, linens, shower curtain, and so on. For these belongings, fold and place them inside a sturdy and protective plastic bag or inside a cardboard box. To keep your towels and linens fresh during your move, try putting a dryer sheet inside the bag or box you pack them in.

More Helpful Tips

Use small boxes.

Don’t pack boxes too heavy or they may break under the weight.

Use toiletry bags for makeup and hair accessories.

Line boxes with linens to create a protective cushion for items you intend to pack inside. Using linens and other soft bathroom items, like towels, will save you money on supplies like packing paper and packing peanuts.

Don’t throw away hazardous materials (medicines, paints, chemicals) in the trashcan or toilet. They are dangerous to the environment and need to be disposed of the correct way. To learn how, contact your local recycling center or nearest Environmental Protection Agency.

Don’t have time to spend on packing? Then you can always hire professional movers to tackle the job for you. Professional movers know how to pack every room in your house – including the bathroom – so contact a local and reputable moving company for advice and cost estimates about your upcoming move.

During the stressful and chaotic process of moving house, packing books isn’t typically put on the high-priority list of things to get done. It’s understandable. Packing books, after all, is much easier than packing, say, a kitchen that is full of breakable items. But while books require a less tedious packing process than some other belongings, you don’t just want to throw them in a box and hope for the best. Instead, you need to know the basic principles and safety rules of packing them to ensure they make it to your new home unharmed. To prevent damage to your favorite reads and to prolong their shelf life, here are some simple steps to follow when packing your book collection.

Step 1: Sort.

A handful of books may not seem like much weight. But the more books you cram into a box, the heavier the load will become. The number one problem people make when packing books for a move is putting too many in one box. This can cause many problems on moving day, such as personal injury or a box breaking. The biggest problem, though, is this: The final price of your move is based on the total weight of your shipment. This means that the heavier your boxes are, the more costly your move will be.

So consider this: Do you really need to take every book you own? If you take the time to go through your book collection, you will most likely come across many that you no longer want or feel the desire to hold onto. Consider giving these books to a friend who loves to read, or donating them to a library, school or charity shop. You can also recycle any paperbacks that are too worn-out or damaged to be given away.

Step 2: Gather Supplies.

In order to pack your books, you will need to have the right packing supplies to avoid any damage during transport. Here’s what you’ll need:

Book boxes. Wimpy boxes won’t work when packing your books, so you’ll need to collect book boxes that can handle the job. Book boxes are

Strong, because they are made out of thick cardboard.

Small-medium in size (20” x 11” x 11”).

Clean, dry and free of pre-existing damage.

Packing paper. Soft packing paper is a must-have supply when packing your book collection. Use it to separate rows of books arranged inside your boxes and to fill empty spots to prevent rattling during shipment.

Packing tape. Heavy boxes have an increased risk of breaking. This is why strong, high-quality packing tape is so important. You will need to use it to seal your boxes, but also to provide additional reinforcement on their bottom and sides.

Permanent marker. Be sure to use a permanent marker to label each box of books. This will make things easier when arriving at your new home.

Step 3: Pack them.

When packing your books, there are three different methods you can choose to arrange them: upright, flat and spine down. The safest method is to lie them flat in a box in stacks. If you choose this method, be sure to place heavier books on the bottom and lighter ones on top. When you have sorted through your book collection and have collected the necessary packing supplies, you can finally take the steps to pack them.

Individually wrap any valuable books you have in soft packing paper.

Line the bottom of your boxes with packing paper to further insulate it. This will provide them with extra protection during the move.

Don’t arrange books too tightly. This could cause damage to covers and pages.

Don’t let the pages or covers of different books directly touch each other. To do this, pack one row of books then place a couple of sheets of packing paper over them. Then pack the next row of books.

Fill any large gaps inside your boxes with crumpled pieces of packing paper to eliminate movement.

Place a final sheet of packing paper on the very top of your books. Then close the lid and secure it with tape.

Label your box with a permanent marker.

Safety Rules to Remember

The key to packing books is taking the necessary safety measures to pack and ship them. Avoiding any of the basic rules listed below when packing your books can result in damage.

Keep the weight of a single book-filled box under 40 pounds.

Use small- to medium-sized boxes.

Double tape the seams of your book boxes – even containers that are new.

Place the heaviest books on the bottom of each box.

Use extra care when packing books of value by wrapping them in soft packing paper. You may also want to transport books of high value (first-edition collections, etc.) yourself to ensure they are handled with utmost care.

Just looking at a china cabinet can leave you feeling tense. All of those delicate items just waiting to break at even the slightest rattle or shake. The worry of breakage is even worse when preparing for a move. One careless step and you risk some of your most valuable items being shattered into thousands of sharp, dangerous pieces. Not only that, but your china cabinet itself is breakable too and can suffer major damage during the moving process. Luckily, there are ways to tackle the fragile process of moving your china cabinet and all of the precious items inside with no cracks, chips or broken pieces. So let out those worried breaths and steady those shaky hands, and check out the following tips.

Must-Have Supplies

Before you can begin the process of packing your china cabinet, you will need to gather all of the necessary supplies. Here’s a list of all of the must-haves:

Dish boxes. To provide the best protection to your breakables, you will need to invest in dish boxes. While similar to typical moving boxes, dish boxes are better for breakables because they are made of a double layer of thick corrugated cardboard. They can also be found with specific slots to provide extra protection around each individual dish. If you are unable to find boxes specifically designed for dishes, you can still use regular moving boxes, but just be sure to include extra padding to compensate for the weaker protection of their single-layered cardboard walls.

Bubble wrap. The air-filled sacks bubble wrap provides is a must-have supply when packing breakables. For delicate items, like china, it will ensure the ultimate protection needed to keep everything safe during the moving process.

Steps to Pack Your China and Breakables

Now that you have the necessary packing supplies, follow these steps to pack your fine china when moving house.

Step 1: Reinforce the bottoms and sides of dish/moving boxes with quality, heavy-duty packing tape. Breakables, like fine china, can become very heavy when packed together. Providing your boxes with extra security is a vital step to ensure your boxes – and the contents inside – won’t break.

Step 2: Layer wads of crumpled paper on the bottom of your boxes before filling them up.

Step 3: Position one fine china plate – or other items – in the middle of several sheets of packing paper. Two or three sheets should suffice. One by one, pull the corner of the sheet stack over the plate until it ends up completely covered. Secure paper edges with packing tape.

Step 4: Using a single sheet of bubble wrap, use the same method as the previous step to wrap your item. Secure with packing tape.

Step 6: When all items are properly wrapped, you can place them inside their designated boxes. For plates, place them in boxes on their edges. Stacking them flat can cause damage to those plates on the bottom due to too much weight bearing down on them.

Step 7: When your box is unable to fit anymore pieces of chinaware, fill any remaining spaces inside the box with packing paper or newspaper. You can also use bubble wrap or old, clean pieces of clothing. The goal here is to make sure nothing moves inside the box during your move. To check, give each box a gentle shake. If you feel, or hear, movement inside, add more padding materials before sealing the lid.

Step 8: Use words like “BREAKABLE”, “FRAGILE”, and “CHINAWARE” to label the top and sides of each box.

Steps to Prepare Your China Cabinet for a Move

Packing the contents of your china cabinet is just the first half of the moving process. The second half is to get the china cabinet itself ready for the big move. China cabinets are very fragile. This being said, the best way to move them is to hire experienced professionals who will do a great job of safely packing and transporting your china cabinet in a way that only experts know how. If hiring a professional mover isn’t in your budget, however, the following steps will help you move your china cabinet safely and efficiently.

Step 1: Empty Contents. Before you can even think about preparing your china cabinet for a move, the first step is to empty all of its contents. (If you skipped the step-by-step guide above on how to pack items from your china cabinet, scroll up!)

Step 2: Handle Glass with Care. Once your cabinet is completely empty, you will need to focus on its glass elements. If your china cabinet contains fragile glass doors and shelves, for instance – as most do – it is crucial to handle these areas with particular care.

Glass Doors. During a bumpy, jostling move, the doors of your china cabinet are bound to swing open – a problem that can lead to damage and even injury to those moving it. The best way to secure doors, especially those made of glass, is by removing them and packing them separately. Remove all doors one by one, slowly and carefully. Then, wrap each door in thick packing paper, followed by a layer of bubble wrap. The final protection step is to wrap doors in furniture blankets and secure them with packing tape. *Be sure to keep all screws, hinges and other small parts in a sealed plastic bag – and don’t forget to label it!

Glass Shelves. Just as you removed the glass doors to your china cabinet, you will also want to remove any glass shelves. Using extra caution, take each shelf out of the cabinet one at a time. Then, wrap them in packing paper and cover them with several sheets of bubble wrap. Be sure to take the same final packing precaution as you did with the doors, and wrap shelves in a final layer of thick furniture blankets. Old, clean blankets you already own will also work.

Step 3: One-Piece or Two-Piece Cabinet? Does your china cabinet have one piece or two? If it is a two-piece china cabinet, it will have two
sections – an upper section where china is displayed, and a lower section with drawers for storage. If there are two sections, be sure to separate them for better packing and protection during your move.

Step 4: Wrap Cabinet in Furniture Blankets. When all pieces – including drawers – have been removed, wrap the entire cabinet in furniture blankets. Be sure all areas are fully

Step 5: Secure Cabinet Legs. If your china cabinet has legs, they are highly susceptible to damage during transportation. To protect these protruding parts, wrap them in thick blankets or multiple sheets of bubble wrap, then use plenty of tape to secure them. Even better, if the legs of your china cabinet can be removed, take them off and pack them accordingly.

Step 6: Move Your China Cabinet.The final step of moving your china cabinet is both tricky and risky. You have to be able to lift it and also know how to use proper moving equipment to move it. An appliance dolly is the best tool to move your china cabinet without damage or injury to those moving it. Make sure the cabinet is adequately secured and immobilized on the dolly with rope or straps before trying to move it.

Whether a person is old, young or somewhere in between, computers are an essential part of daily life. They offer entertainment, education, and an easy way to instantly connect with others. So when you’re preparing for a move and it’s time to pack your precious computer, you want to take every precaution in order to avoid something bad happening to it. From specific packing supplies to packing preparations, below you will find everything you need to know about how to pack your computer safely to protect it during the bumpy journey ahead.

Packing Supplies

The first rule to packing (no matter what the item is) is to ensure you have the proper supplies to keep your belongings safe and protected. When packing something as valuable as a computer, the process of packing gets a bit trickier – especially for desktop computers because they come with a number of parts (monitor, hard drive, keyboard, mouse). Here are the essential packing supplies you’ll need:

Computer packing boxes. The optimal choice when packing a computer for a move is to use its original packaging. This is because it is professionally designed to provide adequate protection to a computer during travel. But let’s be real … if your computer is more than a few weeks old, any original packaging is most likely long gone. But don’t worry; there are ways around this.

First, ask friends and even IT employees where you work if they have any spare computer boxes you can use. If not, opt for a regular cardboard box. Make sure it’s the right size, and use lots of cushioning materials around the computer.

Bubble wrap and packing paper. Along with boxes, you will need bubble wrap and packing paper to safely pack your computer. Several layers of these two items should be wrapped and secured around your computer in order to help eliminate damage during a move.

Styrofoam inserts, packing peanuts, and air-filled plastic bags. Along with wrapping your computer in bubble wrap and packing paper, it is also a good idea to fill the moving box with extra protection, like styrofoam inserts, packing peanuts or air-filled plastic bags. Supplies like these will provide the necessary protection required during your relocation by absorbing vibrations and negating direct hits that may occur while traveling on the road to your new home.

Packaging tape. Once your computer is safely packed inside a moving box, it’s important to use quality packing tape to seal the lid shut. You will also want to secure sides and seams, along with the underside of the box, for extra reinforcement.

Sealable plastic bags. Computers come with several small parts (cords, screws, etc.). For small items like these, use sealable plastic bags to store them. Be sure to label all bags so parts aren’t lost during the chaos of your move.

Steps to Prepare Your Computer for a Move

Once you have all of the supplies needed, there are some things to do before you can actually use them to pack your computer. Here are some important steps to follow:

Step 1: Backup data. As important as the outside of your computer is, the data it stores inside is just as vital – if not more so. If your computer was to endure damage during your move, if you have a backup of all of your data, you will still have all of your photos, important documents, etc. To backup your data, there are several ways to do it – we suggest using at least two of the following methods, just in case!

Upload data to a cloud storage service.

Transfer files to an external hard drive.

Save information to a flash drive.

Step 2: Measure your computer. Before you can properly pack your computer inside of a box, you will need to know what size packing box you will need. To find out, measure your computer. For desktops, this means measuring both the monitor and computer tower.

Step 3: Remove cables. When it’s time to pack your computer, the first thing you should do is take a picture of how all of its cables are plugged in. This will save you time and confusion when hooking your computer back up after the move. Next, remove all cables from the wall and the computer itself, and pack them accordingly.

Step 4: Keep Your Computer in One Piece. Before you start taking apart and removing important pieces to your computer, opt for the better route and don’t disassemble your computer at all! Taking your computer apart in order to pack it for a move is not necessary. In fact, disassembling then reassembling your computer poses a much greater risk of damage than simply leaving it intact and packing it as is.

Whether you’re moving out of a rental house or a home you own, you need to take proper precautions to prevent property damage from occurring during your relocation. If your property is going to be put on the market, chipped walls and scratched floors will negatively affect the sale. This is why it needs to be in perfect condition after moving in order to pocket the most money out of the deal. If you are moving out of a rental home, you also need to leave the property in excellent condition if you want to get your security deposit back. Whatever your moving situation is, here are some tips to help protect your property when relocating.

Hire Professional Movers

The easiest way to avoid damage when moving out is to hire a trustworthy moving company. Professional movers have all the required equipment, along with the necessary skills to ensure your belongings are moved in a safe and danger-free manner. They also have enough experience under their belts to foresee every potential risk, so they can take adequate measures to keep your home and personal items safe.

Properly Pack Your Belongings

To help reduce the risk of damaged items during your move, it’s important to pack everything safely and securely. This means using adequate packing materials, sorting out your belongings, and packing every single item based on its weight, shape and fragility. Here are some tips:

Use sturdy boxes;

Secure boxes with heavy-duty packing tape;

Provide sufficient padding inside boxes, containers, etc.;

Avoid placing too many heavy items inside one box. Instead, distribute hefty items into small containers that are easy to carry around;

Use large boxes solely for light items; and

Dismantle furniture and carefully wrap edges that are sharp or protruding.

Use Proper Moving EquipmentBefore you move heavy items – furniture, large appliances, etc. – it’s important to get the proper moving equipment to facilitate your needs. Otherwise, you risk serious injury. Below are some well-known tools that will help make moving large, bulky items easy, as well as keep your home damage-free.

Dolly/Hand-Cart. With the use of a dolly/hand-cart, you will be able to move heavy furniture or multiple boxes without risking damage to the floors. This tool will also reduce strain on your body, helping lower the risk of injury.

Moving Pads. Sliding hefty items across the floor in order to move them can lead to scrapes and dents. Moving pads are the most reliable and easiest method to tackle this type of task.

Straps. Cabinet doors, desk drawers, and other belongings that open can easily do so when being moved. The result: wrecked floors and damaged doorframes. To avoid problems like these, use straps to keep them properly secured.

Safeguard Your Property

Property damage is very possible when moving house. This can negatively affect a home being put up for sale, as well as cause rental deposits to be forfeited. Use adequate measures and materials to avoid accidental damage during your move. Safeguard your properly with items like these:

Furniture Blankets. Furniture blankets serve multiple purposes, which makes them very handy when safeguarding your home from moving damage. They can be used to create a protective barrier for furniture, floors, walls, etc. You can also drape and secure them over bannisters to eliminate damage when moving items up and down stairs.

Plywood Sheets. Hardwood and tile floors are highly susceptible to harm, especially when hit by a heavy appliance. To safeguard your floors, cover them with sheets of plywood to absorb any damaging blows on moving day.

Carpet Film Protectors. These protectors are designed specifically to protect carpets by providing them with a tear-free, non-slip surface. They also do not leave adhesive residue and are suitable for covering all types of floors.

Corner Guards. Moving day leaves corners and edges susceptible to chipping. Installing corner guards around your home prior to moving activities will prevent this from happening.

Moving to a new home is one of the biggest steps you can take in your life. It will require a number of things to ensure you are well-equipped for the adventure ahead – a positive attitude, excellent organizational skills, sufficient savings, reliable moving assistance and quality packing supplies. But there’s one more thing needed to conquer the rocky steps to come … a good pair of shoes. As you already know, shoes are a necessity – every day and in every situation. This being said, you will need a reliable pair of shoes before, during and after your relocation. And just as you need to wear good shoes while moving, you also need to pack all of your shoes correctly so they will stay in good condition. To avoid smashing, tearing, breaking or deforming your footwear during your move, here are some essential tips to pack your soles the right way.

Tip 1: Sort your shoes
Before you can pack your shoes, you must first sort through them. This way you will know which pairs should be taken with you and which ones should be left behind.

First, put aside any worn out/damaged shoes that you can no longer wear. These shoes can be thrown away prior to your move.

Next, set aside any shoes that are in good condition but that you no longer wear, like shoes you have outgrown, formal shoes you no longer have a need for, outdated shoes, uncomfortable shoes, etc. There is no point in moving impractical footwear to your new home. The fewer items you relocate, the less time, packing materials and money will be wasted in the end.

Lastly, group all shoes you intend to take with you, according to their type – boots, flip-flops, high heels, sneakers, etc.

Tip 2: Prepare your shoes for packing
Once you have decided which shoes you intend to take with you, you will need to prepare them for packing.

Check for minor repairs. Before packing your shoes, you should inspect each pair for minor repairs. Minor repairs range from replacing zippers or soles to sewing up torn or loose sections. Then, go ahead and have them repaired. There are a few reasons why taking your shoes to a repair shop prior to your move is a good idea, but the main reason is because you may learn that a pair of shoes is not worth fixing. As a result, you may decide not to relocate them after all.

Clean your shoes. Cleaning each pair of shoes you intend to relocate is another good way to prepare them for a move. To do this, remove all dirt and dust. Also, remove any pebbles embedded in the soles, a problem that can harm delicate footwear.

Dry shoes. Packing shoes that contain moisture inside a moving box can lead to a moldy, smelly situation. To avoid this, it is strongly recommended to air out your shoes for a few hours before packing them. For shoes that are especially vulnerable to humidity (sports shoes, work shoes, leather shoes), you may also want to place crumpled paper inside each shoe to help fully absorb any moisture. You can also add powder to the insides to help draw moisture out of leather and other fabrics.

Stuff shoes with paper. Many believe that simply throwing your shoes into a moving box is an efficient packing method, but this can lead to damage. To help your shoes keep their shape and avoid being crushed during transportation, stuff them with paper. While packing paper is the ideal choice, you can also use any clean paper or soft fabric, like socks. Avoid messy items, like newspaper, which will leave behind ink stains.

For shoes/boots that go above the ankle, be sure to stuff them all the way to the top. For high heels, wrap the heels in bubble wrap to prevent them from breaking.

Use proper packing materials. For some, shoes may just be shoes, but for many, they are an investment – especially those with designer names. To preserve your investment during the moving process, you should provide your shoes with the best protection possible by using quality packing materials. Plastic bags and cardboard boxes may be fine for certain things, but for more expensive or valuable items, like pairs of shoes, you will need sturdy boxes, packing paper and quality packing tape.

Tip 3: How to pack shoes
Once you have accomplished the previous tips, you can now focus on how to pack your shoes. When packing shoes for a move, you should focus on two things: safety and efficiency. Here are some ways to make the packing process easier.

Set aside a pair of shoes for moving day. While packing your shoes, be sure to set aside a pair of shoes to wear on moving day. Be sure they have non-slip soles, will protect your feet, and also ensure safety and comfort.

Separately pack footwear you’ll need within the first few days post-move. They should be season-appropriate, good for running around town, and also provide comfort when unpacking your belongings.

Use boxes. The ideal way to pack is to wrap your shoes in packing paper and place them inside their original boxes. But if these boxes have long been thrown away, use small- to medium-sized boxes that are clean and strong enough to provide adequate protection. Once shoes are inside the appropriate box, seal the box with packing tape.

Pack in pairs. To avoid a maddening hunt to locate a single shoe, always pack your shoes together as a pair.

Pack heavy shoes first. If packing several pairs of shoes in one box, be sure to place heavier ones on the bottom. Cover them with a protective layer of packing paper, then place lighter shoes on top.

Don’t overpack boxes. When piled together, shoes are quite heavy, so it’s important not to put too many pairs together in one box. Overpacked boxes will be too heavy and difficult to lift and carry, and may even crush under their own weight.

Imagine that you wake up in the morning, and it’s officially moving day. You have worked diligently for months organizing every detail and packing every single belonging for your imminent relocation. Everything is complete except or the heavy lifting … right? Well, you may think so, but believe it or not, there is a good chance that as you empty your home of furniture and boxes, you will come across a drawer or cabinet you forgot to pack, or a few lingering items lying around. How will you pack these items? Times like this call for one thing – extra supplies! For those last lingering items that creep up, here is a list of the essential last-minute supplies to have handy on moving day.

Spare boxes: When moving, one supply you can never have too many of is cardboard boxes. Not only are they great for securely packing your belongings, but they are also useful for other things, like providing extra protection to already packed items and to cover floors to prevent damage and excessive dirt. Since boxes are so convenient, practical and affordable, they are truly indispensable, so be sure to get extras to have on hand for moving day.

Packing tape: Cardboard boxes go hand-in-hand with – you guessed it – packing tape. Without this extremely vital packing supply, there would be no way to secure or seal your moving boxes. The day of the big move, it will be very handy to have packing tape for last-minute needs, like sealing boxes, restructuring any boxes that break, and so on. It is also a good idea to get a packing tape dispenser, because it will save you time and effort.

Permanent markers: Not labeling boxes and other belongings during a move is an easy way to lose your things. Printed labels may come in handy for pre-moving packing, but for last-minute labeling needs, nothing is handier than a permanent marker. Be sure to have several on hand during your move to ensure all of your belongings are clearly marked.

Bags: Plastic bags, sealable bags, trash bags, vacuum bags … all types are welcome on moving day and make an excellent last-minute packing supply. Use them to hold random, loose items you forgot to pack, to gather trash, and so on. The more bags the better; just make sure they’re clean.

Medical Supplies

The day of the big move involves a lot of heavy lifting and moving awkwardly-shaped items. As a result, there is a fairly high risk of injury. In case of injuries, sore muscles, etc., here are some life-saving medical supplies to have on hand.

First-aid kit: For quick and adequate measures, a first-aid kit will provide you with the proper medical supplies in the unfortunate event of an injury.

Pain Relievers: Aspirin and other pain relievers for achy, sore muscles will come in handy during your move, as well as after.

Allergy medications: Environmental factors are one thing that can stir up your allergies, but moving involves a lot of contact with dust, dirt, and other irritants – all things that can really cause allergies to act up. Access to allergy medications on moving day will help alleviate allergy symptoms, which will keep sneezing, itchy eyes and runny noses at bay.

Contact lens solution: With all of the dust and dirt that get blown around during a move, it’s a good idea to have easy access to contact solution in case something gets in your eyes. You should also have your glasses handy, just in case. The last thing you want to have happen in the middle of a move is to have your vision compromised.

Daily medications: Moving day is a day of non-stop, go-go-go action. This makes it likely to lose track of time and also be unable to focus on anything except your move. Unfortunately, this can be problematic if you forget to take your prescription medication(s) during the moving madness, so be sure to keep all daily medications accessible.

Basic Tools

Whether you need to disassemble furniture, measure the dimensions of a doorway, or other random task, having basic tools at your disposal will save you a lot of hassle come moving day. Make sure you have these things:

Swiss army knife: This multifunctional tool not only serves a number of purposes, but it can also easily fit into your pocket.

Scissors: A good pair of scissors will go far on moving day, from cutting tape to sealing boxes, and more. Also consider having a box cutter on hand.

Hand tools: There are several hand tools to keep close by when moving, including a hammer, pliers, screwdriver, nails, screws, duct tape and a measuring tape.

The moving process is long and tedious. Even after making the official decision to move, you still have to pack all of your belongings and tackle moving day. To get everything done smoothly, efficiently and safely, it’s vital to gather the correct and necessary supplies. For everything you’ll need, check out our essential supply guide.

Small Tools

To prepare for the moving process, start by collecting the small, but totally necessary supplies first.

Tape Gun/Dispenser. A roll of tape and scissors. If you’ve ever gone this route when using tape, you know just how slow and irritating it is. Using a tape gun/dispenser is the optimal way to tape boxes quickly and efficiently.

Utility Knife. Yes, you probably have a kitchen drawer full of knives, but avoid using them as a moving supply – it’s dangerous and just not a good idea. A utility knife is your best bet for opening boxes, cutting cords and ropes, and so on.

Hammer. A hammer will come in very handy when packing. Use it when taking artwork off the walls, and make sure to remove all nails as you go!

Screwdriver. Screwdrivers are important tools to always have in your toolbox. For all of the furniture that needs to be disassembled and reassembled, a screwdriver will be your go-to tool.

Gloves. Just as you want to protect your belongings during your move, you should also protect your hands from cuts, scrapes, pinches and blisters. While gloves are an often-overlooked moving supply, believe us when we say that they’re a very important one.

Equipment

Moving involves handling many heavy objects, from boxes to furniture to major household appliances. To avoid body strain and serious injury, it’s important to rent (or buy) certain moving equipment. Here are some items that will greatly assist you on the day of your move.

Dolly. Moving a washer and dryer or something else just as heavy? Then a dolly should be at the top of your moving-supply list. Dollies are designed to help move items weighing up to 1,000 pounds. A sturdy dolly will help protect your back and muscles from injury; it will also make the moving process much faster.

Lifting Straps. As handy as a dolly is, lifting straps are another moving supply that prove very effective. With the help of a friend, these straps make lifting large items, like furniture, less straining and much easier.

Hand Truck. While similar to a dolly, a hand truck is typically designed to carry up to 600 pounds. They are a great help if you want to transport smaller items, like a stack of boxes.

Packing Supplies

In order to prepare for the day of your move, you have to pack. This means you will need to gather all of the must-have packing supplies. The following will be the most useful.

Bubble Wrap. For all of the awkward and breakable items in your home, bubble wrap is the perfect way to keep them all safe and secure. Not to mention, popping all those bubbles post-move will be a fun treat.

Packing Paper. Sure, newspaper can be used for packing, but it’s quite messy, leaving your hands and whatever you pack covered in black ink. Packing paper is designed specifically for moving, providing excellent protection and no mess!

Trash bags. Trash bags may be used to contain some pretty gross – and smelly – things. But, they can be used for so much more! Trash bags are a very handy packing supply for items, such as towels, clothes and soft toys.

Rubber Bands. During a move, furniture doors, jewelry box lids, etc. can easily pop open. Avoid this by securing all doors and lids with rubber bands. You can also use rubber bands to secure electrical cords and any other items you want to keep together, like pens and pencils or silverware.

When packing your home for a move, you will run into many breakable items. These types of things can be difficult to pack – especially framed photos. To make this task easier, follow this step-by-step guide.

Materials Required. First, and foremost, before you begin packing, you must acquire all the necessary materials. You’ll need:

moving boxes

wrapping paper / bubble wrap

strong packing tape

permanent marker

Boxes can be purchased through a moving company or salvaged via friends and local shops. You can also opt for moving boxes designed specifically for framed photos and art – these boxes can be divided into two or four sections.

Also, be sure to get boxes that are larger than the objects you intend to place inside. This way, there will be enough empty space at the top of the box to fill with packing paper or bubble wrap for extra protection.

Once you have obtained all of the necessary materials, follow these steps to ensure all fragile items are properly packed.

1. Clear a space. There’s nothing worse than trying to do something in the middle of a mess, so clear a work space and spread packing paper and bubble wrap flat. Position your framed photo directly onto the packing paper, then wrap it well by covering all areas. If only using packing paper, wrap your picture in several layers. Otherwise, wrap bubble wrap around the first layer of packing paper to ensure it’s well protected.

2. Tape around the photo. Once wrapped, using strong packing tape, wrap around the entire paper-protected frame. This will provide the glass with extra protection so it is less likely to break.

3. Mark it. To make future unpacking easier, use a permanent marker to mark the glass side of the wrapped frame.

4. Fill the bottom of the box. Before placing any wrapped items into a box, first fill the bottom of the box with crumpled paper to provide a protective layer. Then, place your wrapped frame into the box. If adding more to the box, be sure to add a layer of crumpled paper between each frame.

5. Finish off with paper. Before closing the box, finish off the last bit with more crumpled paper to prevent items inside from shaking while being transported.

6. Tape and secure. Once your box is complete, tape your box closed. Secure it further by taping around all edges of the box. Ensure tape it pulled tight with no risk of coming loose.

7. Label. Using a permanent marker, clearly label your box – on top and on all sides. Use words like “fragile” or “breakable” so movers will know to be careful.

8. Load it. When loading any boxes filled with framed photos, it’s a good idea to position these boxes vertically. This will evenly distribute pressure throughout the surface of the box and breaking will be prevented.